Reykjavík in Winter
A reading adventure inspired by Reykjavík: A Crime Story
A different kind of winter break
Books, fire, ice and the Northern Lights
Join us for five days in Reykjavík, exploring Iceland's extraordinary winter landscapes and the atmospheric world of Ragnar Jónasson and Katrín Jakobsdóttir's Reykjavík: A Crime Story.
February gives us a very different Iceland to the one you might experience in summer. Snowy landscapes, dark skies, geothermal wonders and the possibility of the Northern Lights all combine to make this a particularly atmospheric time to visit.
There will be time to explore Reykjavík, read and discuss the book with fellow book lovers, as well as venture further afield to experience some of Iceland's most remarkable natural and historic sights.
The Iceland experience
More than just a city break
The Northern Lights
Our first evening takes us out into the Icelandic countryside in search of the Aurora Borealis. We'll travel away from the city and into the darkness, hoping for a glimpse of one of nature's most spectacular displays.
Northern Lights sightings are weather-dependent and cannot be guaranteed.
The Golden Circle
Discover some of Iceland's best-known natural and historic landmarks, including Þingvellir National Park, the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal area around Geysir and Strokkur.
Your own Iceland
Our final full day is deliberately flexible. Explore Reykjavík at your own pace, or choose an optional experience such as whale watching, the Sky Lagoon or a journey underground into a lava tunnel.
Time for the book
At the heart of the trip is the book. We'll have time to talk about Reykjavík: A Crime Story, share our thoughts and discover the city with the story in mind.
The book
Reykjavík: A Crime Story
Ragnar Jónasson & Katrín Jakobsdóttir
Written by Icelandic novelist Ragnar Jónasson and former Icelandic prime minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir, Reykjavík: A Crime Story is a gripping crime novel set against the backdrop of Iceland's capital.
The story takes us into Reykjavík's past and present, combining a murder mystery with a fascinating sense of place. As we explore the city, we'll have the opportunity to look at Reykjavík through the eyes of the novel.
As always with Books in Places, the book is more than something to read before we travel. It's a way of seeing the destination differently.
Our itinerary
Five days in Iceland
Arrival in Reykjavík
Arrive in Iceland and transfer to our hotel in the heart of Reykjavík. There will be time to settle in, meet the group and enjoy an early dinner before heading out into the countryside in search of the Northern Lights.
Reykjavík & the book
A day to explore Reykjavík and discover more about the world of our book. There will be time to enjoy the city, read and spend time with fellow book lovers.
The Golden Circle
Today we head out into the Icelandic landscape to visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal area around Geysir and Strokkur.
Your Icelandic adventure
Choose your own adventure. Spend the day exploring Reykjavík, or join an optional whale watching trip, visit the Sky Lagoon or explore a lava tunnel. We'll finish the trip with a final group meal and an opportunity to reflect on our Icelandic adventure.
Homeward bound
After breakfast, we'll transfer back to Keflavík Airport for the journey home. Depending on your flight time, there may be an opportunity for some final sightseeing or shopping in Reykjavík.
Our base in Reykjavík
Center Hotels Plaza
We'll be staying right in the heart of Reykjavík at Center Hotels Plaza, overlooking the city's oldest square.
With the harbour, restaurants, shops and many of Reykjavík's attractions close by, it's an ideal base for exploring the city and enjoying some time at your own pace.
Breakfast is included each morning.
Trip highlights
What makes this trip special
Search for the Northern Lights on our first evening
Explore Þingvellir, Gullfoss and Geysir
Stay in the heart of Reykjavík
Read and discuss Reykjavík: A Crime Story
Choose your own Icelandic adventure on the final full day
Travel with a small group of fellow book lovers
Practical details
Your trip at a glance
Dates
21st - 25th February 2027
Location
Reykjavík, Iceland
Flights
Flights available from a range of UK airports.
Baggage
23kg checked baggage included.
Airport transfer
FlyBus transfer between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík included.
Accommodation
Center Hotels Plaza, with breakfast included.
Reykjavík · 21st - 25th February 2027
Ready for a winter adventure?
Join us for five days of books, Icelandic landscapes, good company and hopefully a little Northern Lights magic.
